Diagnosis

The doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam will be done. Most diagnoses are based on a history of a reaction after a sting. For those with a severe insect allergy, stings may be life-threatening. Therefore, it is important to see an allergist or immunologist (doctor who specializes in allergies).

Tests include:

Skin prick test—An extract of the insect's venom or protein is diluted. The dilute is placed on your forearm or back skin. If there is swelling or redness, an allergic reaction may be present. The doctor will make the diagnosis based on the skin test and your history of symptoms. Some skin tests can have a severe allergic reaction. This test should only be used under the supervision of a physician or other trained medical personnel. Severe
eczema
may make this test hard to interpret.

RAST or ELISA test—The doctor may order blood tests (RAST or ELISA). These tests measure the level of insect-specific IgE in the blood. IgE is a type of protein that the body produces when it is exposed to something to which it is allergic. The presence of IgE in the blood may indicate an allergy.

Treatment

Some reactions cause trouble breathing. In this case, call for emergency medical services.

Treatment may include:

Epinephrine—injected immediately in the event of a severe, life-threatening insect sting allergy (anaphylaxis)

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Insect sting allergy. American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology website. Available at:
http://www.acaai.org/allergist/allergies/Types/insect-sting-allergies/Pages/default.aspx. Accessed August 12, 2014.